ASHLAND — On April 8, 2024, just after 3 p.m., night will briefly overtake day during a total solar eclipse whose path covers most of northern Ohio.
For just a few minutes that day, the moon will pass between the Earth and the sun, blocking its light and thrusting the Ashland area into darkness.
The eclipse also happens to coincide with when Ashland City Schools dismisses students for the day, so the district decided to cancel school for April 8 on the 2023-2024 calendar approved by the Ashland City Schools Board of Education meeting on Monday.
“Thousands upon thousands” of tourists might come to Ashland for the celestial sight, and interim superintendent Steve Paramore does not want students on the road with them.
“The last thing we want is buses stuck in traffic. That’s not real friendly to families who will call in and say, ‘Where’s my kid?'” he said.
April 8, a Monday, will be tacked onto the end of spring break, which occurs the week before the eclipse.
Also new to next school year’s calendar is a staff in-service day on Sept. 22, a Friday, so students can attend the Ashland County Fair, and a few orientation days for sixth and ninth graders at the start of the school year, Paramore said.
The board also approved the retirement of middle school social studies teacher Heidi Obrecht, who has been working at the district since 1989.
“I just want to thank the board. I want to thank God for giving me the job, for my husband, for my family and friends, but for the kids and their families and all the buildings I’ve been at. It’s been a good ride. So thanks,” Obrecht told the board at the end of the meeting.
“I know every kid that I’ve come into contact who has said anything about Mrs. O; it has always been good,” board member Brandon Wells said in response.
